Parmesan Crusted Chicken

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It combines the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese with a crispy panko coating, delivering a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Perfect for family meals, date nights, or casual gatherings, this easy baked chicken will impress everyone at your table with its golden crust and tender meat.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Coating
• For the Chicken
• How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Breading
• Step 3: Slice the Chicken
• Step 4: Coat the Chicken
• Step 5: Bake the Chicken
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• With Fresh Salads
• As a Sandwich
• With Pasta
• Over Rice
• How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken healthier?
• Can I use other cheeses?
• How do I customize my Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?
• Can I make this dish gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Crispy Texture: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates a delightful crunch that keeps the chicken moist inside.
• Versatile Dish: This chicken pairs well with various sides like salads, vegetables, or pasta, making it suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Baking instead of frying reduces fat while maintaining flavor, making it a healthier choice for dinner.
• Kid-Friendly: The crispy coating and savory flavors make it appealing to picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference when preparing this delicious meal.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Instant-read thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the chicken, ensuring optimal heat distribution.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier after baking.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for the butter mixture without lumps.

Ingredients

For this tasty Parmesan Crusted Chicken, you’ll need:

For the Coating

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets
• Chopped parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading

In a shallow bowl:
1. Combine melted butter, olive oil, and garlic powder.
2. Microwave for about 30 seconds if needed and whisk until smooth.

In another shallow bowl:
1. Mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and ground black pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Slice the Chicken

Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. This helps them cook evenly.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

For each cutlet:
1. Dredge it in the butter mixture to ensure it’s evenly coated.
2. Transfer to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Flip it over to coat both sides.
3. Place coated cutlets on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Bake for 20 minutes. Flip halfway through cooking for an even golden crust. Check that each piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using an instant-read thermometer.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Parmesan Crusted Chicken!

Recipe Details:
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Course: Main Course
– Cuisine: American
– Servings: 4 servings
– Calories: 474 kcal per serving

Notes:
Cutlet Prep Tip: Butterflying ensures even cooking and crispiness. Pairing Ideas: Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.

How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Parmesan crusted chicken is not just a delicious main dish; it can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty suggestions for serving this crispy delight.

With Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the chicken’s flavors.
• Greek Salad: The tangy feta and olives in a Greek salad provide a perfect contrast to the savory chicken.
• Arugula Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a peppery bite and lightness.

As a Sandwich

• Chicken Parmesan Sandwich: Layer your Parmesan crusted chicken with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese for a hearty sandwich.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the chicken in crisp lettuce leaves with your favorite sauces.

With Pasta

• Pasta Primavera: Tossing the chicken with pasta and seasonal vegetables makes for a colorful, balanced meal.
• Fettuccine Alfredo: Creamy Alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with the crunchy texture of the chicken.

Over Rice

• Garlic Rice: Serve Parmesan crusted chicken over garlic rice for an aromatic touch.
• Risotto: A creamy risotto can elevate your dining experience, making it more indulgent.

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How to Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken

To ensure your Parmesan crusted chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor and texture compared to pre-grated options.
• Preheat Your Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to achieve that desired crispy crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Space the cutlets apart on the baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate for even cooking.
• Let It Rest After Baking: Allowing the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking helps retain its juices.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
• Serve Immediately: For optimal crunchiness, serve your chicken right after baking while it’s still hot.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Pairing side dishes with your Parmesan crusted chicken can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they make an excellent bed for the crispy chicken.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings freshness and color to your plate.
3. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad adds texture and complements the dish well.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a healthy contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken.
5. Grilled Zucchini: Charred zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with Parmesan crusted chicken.
6. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for a colorful appetizer or side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Crusted Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them.

• Skipping the butterflying step: Not slicing the chicken breasts into cutlets can result in uneven cooking. Always butterfly the chicken for a crispy finish.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Placing too many pieces of chicken close together can lead to steaming instead of baking. Ensure there’s space between each cutlet for optimal crispiness.
• Neglecting to preheat the oven: If you skip this step, the coating may not achieve that perfect golden brown. Always preheat your oven before baking.
• Using stale breadcrumbs: Old panko will lack crunch. Fresh breadcrumbs are essential for that crispy texture.
• Not checking the internal temperature: Cooking without a thermometer may lead to undercooked or overcooked chicken. Always ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Parmesan crusted chicken in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in foil.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Parmesan Crusted Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat for 3-5 minutes on each side until warmed up.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Parmesan Crusted Chicken healthier?

You can use whole wheat panko and bake instead of frying. This keeps it crispy while reducing calories.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes! Try using mozzarella or cheddar alongside Parmesan for a unique flavor twist.

How do I customize my Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Add different spices or herbs like paprika or thyme for varied flavor profiles.

What should I serve with Parmesan Crusted Chicken?

Pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or pasta for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a tasty alternative.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Crusted Chicken recipe is not only easy but also deliciously versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs and spices, making it perfect for any dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy the crunchy goodness!